FAQs

Q?

How is Andrea Sands different from other permanent makeup specialists?

A.

I specialize in giving my clients a truly natural look. My client’s safety and satisfaction is my top priority. I only use federally approved superior pigment as coloring agents. The micro-pigmentation instruments I use are patented, specifically designed for safe and effective permanent makeup application. I use fine brushes to artfully create the look the client seeks. For instance, eyebrows are recreated with fine lines, simulating feathered hair and contoured into a natural-looking arch.

Q?

Why does permanent makeup fade and body tattoos don’t?

A.

First of all, permanent cosmetics are a form of cosmetic tattooing and should be thought of as being “permanent”, the same as one thinks about traditional tattoos on the body. Traditional body tattoos do fade, however, generally at a slower rate due to several different factors. For instance, body art is generally covered up with clothing most of the year and is not excessively exposed to the UV rays which fade cosmetic tattoos on the face. Also, the skin on the body is much denser as compared to facial skin, which is much thinner and again, influencing the degree of color retention. Listed are some other factors which cause permanent makeup to fade: body chemistry; cellular turnover – rejuvenation, etc.; anti-aging products applied directly over the permanent makeup; choice of color applied (i.e., lighter colors will fade quicker than darker colors); and exposure to sunlight (hence the suggestion of wearing an SPF over your permanent makeup); and also, the technician’s choice of pigment(s) used, as well as their experience in applying permanent makeup.

Q?

Is this procedure guaranteed?

A.

Yes, I want you to be totally satisfied with your results. For that reason, we schedule a follow up treatment to enhance any areas that may require more attention. Cost oft the service(s) provided is paid in advance, prior to application of the permanent cosmetic. The following one-time enhancement visit is included in the initial fee

Q?

Are there any side-effects?

A.

Some swelling and redness can be expected for 24-48 hours following the procedure, and in rare cases, a slight bruising may occur. There may be some tenderness in the treated area for a few days. Also, the color may appear darker than you would expect for the first 5-10 days. A cold compress helps to reduce any swelling around the eye-area. The treated area must be kept clean. No makeup should be applied for several days. Some skin peeling and lightening of the applied color is normal. Due to everyone’s individual healing process the rate of healing can be different. In older persons, it is not unusual for a portion of the pigment to lift off while healing. This will be addressed at the follow up appointment. If any additional adjustments are desired, these will also be made at that time. Regular routines usually can be resumed immediately after the procedure. However, tanning, swimming or vigorous exercise should be avoided for a few days. Normal healing time is between 4-7 days.

Q?

Who uses permanent cosmetics?

A.

The original procedure was designed for people who have experienced hair loss due to Chemotherapy or Alopecia, have poor vision, limited or poor motor skills, vitiligo, in need of scar camouflage, arthritis or other physical challenges. For them, permanent cosmetics are not a “luxury,” but a means by which they can enhance their self-esteem. Areolas can be shaped and re-pigmented in breast cancer patients after a mastectomy. Scar camouflage can also be accomplished by the application of permanent cosmetics. Virtually every person who uses an eyebrow pencil or eyeliner is a candidate. No more eyebrow pencils or liner that smudges! People whose brows are sparse or non-existent can enjoy the benefits. Also, people whose brows are blonde or light in color can enjoy permanent brows in individualized shapes and custom blended colors that enhance their facial features. As for eyeliner or eyelash enhancement, a fine soft and natural line can be achieved to create depth and definition to the eyes.

Q?

What if I want to change my hair color?

A.

This is not really a concern when having your eyeliner or lips done. The colors I choose for brows are chosen according to the hues found in skin, hair and eyes, so that brows look natural with almost any coloring.

Q?

Do I have a choice as far as color or intensity is concerned?

A.

You certainly do. The range of colors available to be implanted is almost endless and can be custom tailored to fit every individual’s need. Shape and positioning can be perfected. The color can heal to a soft natural look or it can be very dramatic. The color can also be placed in strokes or lines to emulate hair, such as with a permanent eyebrow procedure. Once the area has healed, color can be added to, or softened in appearance.

Q?

How painful is the application?

A.

We use a topical anesthetic for all procedures which eliminates most of the discomfort. Some clients experience discomfort due to varying pain tolerance and/or resistance to anesthetics. However it is also dependent on how careful your technician is. I am extremely gentle in my application. I commonly hear “This is not bad”, “I thought this would hurt more”, and my favorite, “Are you actually putting the color in right now?”

Q?

How is the specific desired look and shades of coloring determined?

A.

I will sit down with you during our consultation to go over the precise contouring and coloring desired. I will recommend the specific treatment and shades to best complement your own skin tones, hair color, wardrobe, and lifestyle. Also, I will demonstrate expected results by applying penciled makeup on to you before actually implanting the color into the skin.

Q?

What if styles change?

A.

I don’t do anything “trendy.” If at any time you wish to wear a different color lip liner or lipstick, the color you apply would override your permanent color.

Q?

How are permanent cosmetics applied?

A.

The pigment is applied with a hand-held implanter. The depth of the pigment deposit is regulated, making the procedure safe and controlled.

Q?

Do I need to take time off from work?

A.

Most people do not need to take time from their employment and some people have their touchups done on their lunch hour while others prefer to take a day to recover. Some swelling and redness can be expected for 24 hours following the procedure, and in rare cases, a slight bruising may occur.

Q?

How long does permanent makeup last?

A.

Permanent cosmetics are permanent in that you will always have a permanent marking on your skin. However, over time, you will notice a gradual softening of color occurring each year. Many women feel that this is advantageous, as they feel that their permanent makeup will age with them. “Color enhancements” are recommended for those who wish to keep their permanent makeup looking as fresh as possible. Generally, every 2-8 years or so, depending on color, individual body chemistry, and lifestyle. Pricing on color enhancements are greatly reduced, and individually assessed.

Q?

I’m allergic to most makeup, especially eye makeup. Will permanent makeup be safe for me?

A.

Many women choose permanent eyeliner as the solution to their sensitive eyes. Say “good-bye” to watery, runny eyes and smeary makeup forever! However, a patch test is recommended. This means a small amount of pigment is applied your ear and in two to four weeks you have your physician check to see if there is any reaction. Many people skip this step, yet we recommend that you have the patch test.

Q?

How long does a procedure take?

A.

Including the consultation, paperwork, and numbing time, the average length of time for one procedure is approximately 1-1/2 to 3 hours. The second application is usually 1 hour or less.

Q?

How will the permanent eyeliner look?

A.

It will look enhanced, and great! A very conservative approach is used for those who are unsure of width or color. The second application may be used as an opportunity to add more fullness or color, if desired. Permanent make-up can be applied very evenly, precisely and smoothly.

Q?

Will it look “natural”?

A.

Yes. My goal is focused on what you want, and customizing the procedure to your individual needs. Often, you will look more natural than with your conventional makeup.

Q?

What should I expect afterwards?

A.

Approximately 3 days following the procedure, you will lose 20%-30% of the color. Do not have your Permanent Makeup applied right before any major events. Wait a minimum of 7 days for eyeliner and brows and 10 days for any lip procedures. The area will be tender and swollen for a few days. The color will oxidize immediately after the procedure and look “too dark”. This is good. It can mean less of a touch-up. The area will peel leaving less intense color within days. You will book your follow- up appointment 4-6 weeks out to perfect your makeup. How many applications are needed? Generally, two applications are needed in order to achieve full satisfaction with your desired look. However, many of her clients are fully satisfied with just one application. If a second application is desired, it is scheduled approximately 6 weeks after the initial procedure.

Q?

Can I still wear regular makeup?

A.

Absolutely! This will just enhance any other cosmetics you use. You may not want to use your cosmetics every day, but apply some additional drama for special occasions

Q?

Is it safe?

A.

Yes. At AE Spa, the procedures are performed under sterile conditions. One-time use, disposable needles are used. There are no long-term side effects. Short-term side effects may include some redness, swelling and tenderness. There are no known allergic reactions to pigments. An allergy test can be performed on clients prior to their treatment by injecting a small amount of pigment into the hairline.

Q?

What is permanent makeup?

A.

Permanent cosmetics is a safe and natural-looking alternative to the expense and daily routine of applying makeup upon waking in the morning and often times throughout the day. It is a state-of-the-art technique of permanently applying makeup via intradermal Micropigmentation. Properly applied by an experienced technician, permanent makeup will be more natural and realistic in appearance as compared to conventional cosmetics.

Q?

How does your method differ from a doctor’s?

A.

These procedures are art and not science. Please be aware that while a doctor may provide a “general anesthetic,” you, the client, have no control over the position of color. Some MD’s are trained in these procedures, but most prefer to stay within their field of expertise. Because of my background in the fine arts and portraiture, I focus special attention to color and design.